Published: March 19, 2025
Shillong, India — In a commanding performance at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, the Indian national football team secured a 3-0 victory against the Maldives in an international friendly match. This win not only marked a successful debut for head coach Manolo Marquez but also celebrated the return of veteran striker Sunil Chhetri, who added to his impressive goal tally.
Match Highlights
- First Half: The match commenced with India asserting dominance in ball possession. Despite creating multiple scoring opportunities, the first half concluded without any goals, as both teams struggled to capitalize on their chances.
- Second Half: The deadlock was broken in the 53rd minute when defender Rahul Bheke scored with a precise header from a corner kick, giving India a 1-0 lead. Building on this momentum, forward Liston Colaco extended the lead in the 66th minute, also utilizing a well-executed header from a set-piece. The highlight of the match came in the 76th minute when Sunil Chhetri, returning to international duty, headed in a cross from Colaco, sealing the 3-0 victory and marking his 95th international goal.
Coaching Debut
This match marked the first victory for India’s new head coach, Manolo Marquez. Under his guidance, the team displayed a cohesive and aggressive style of play, reflecting Marquez’s tactical approach and setting a positive tone for future competitions.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, India aims to build momentum for upcoming fixtures, including the 2027 AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers. The team’s performance against the Maldives offers a promising outlook, especially with key players like Chhetri returning to form.
